U.S. patent application number 17/050420 was filed with the patent office on 2021-06-24 for seal device.
The applicant listed for this patent is EAGLE INDUSTRY CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Toru KONO, Akira URABE.
Application Number | 20210189896 17/050420 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005445079 |
Filed Date | 2021-06-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210189896 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KONO; Toru ; et al. |
June 24, 2021 |
SEAL DEVICE
Abstract
A seal device is configured so that seal properties can be held
over a long period of time. A seal device 1 inserted into and
disposed between grooves each formed at first and second components
which are adjacent to each other and collectively form a housing
structure includes a first seal member inserted into the groove of
the first component, a second seal member inserted into the groove
of the second component, and a partitioning member extending
between the first and second seal members to partition a space
between the grooves of the first and second components and arranged
movably relative to the first and second seal members.
Inventors: |
KONO; Toru; (Tokyo, JP)
; URABE; Akira; (Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
EAGLE INDUSTRY CO., LTD. |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005445079 |
Appl. No.: |
17/050420 |
Filed: |
May 17, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
May 17, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2019/019617 |
371 Date: |
October 23, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F05D 2240/55 20130101;
F16J 15/0887 20130101; F02C 7/28 20130101; F01D 11/005
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F01D 11/00 20060101
F01D011/00; F02C 7/28 20060101 F02C007/28 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 21, 2018 |
JP |
2018-097253 |
Claims
1. A seal device inserted into and disposed between grooves each
formed at each of first and second components which are adjacent to
each other and collectively form a housing structure, comprising: a
first seal member inserted into the groove of the first component;
a second seal member inserted into the groove of the second
component; and a partitioning member extending between the first
and second seal members to partition a space between the grooves of
the first and second components and arranged movably relative to
the first and second seal members.
2. The seal device according to claim 1, wherein the partitioning
member is formed from a thin plate.
3. The seal device according to claim 1, wherein the partitioning
member includes a base portion formed in a flat plate shape and
projecting portions formed at both ends of the base portion in a
transverse direction thereof and extending in a longitudinal
direction of the partitioning member and having a greater thickness
than that of the base portion, and each of the first and second
seal members is provided with a hollow in which the projecting
portions are housed and an opening which is formed with a shorter
dimension in a thickness direction than a dimension of each
projecting portion in the thickness direction and into which the
base portion is inserted.
4. The seal device according to claim 3, wherein the projecting
portions are formed in such a manner that both end portions of the
partitioning member in a transverse direction thereof are folded
back.
5. The seal device according to claim 3, wherein each of the
projecting portions is divided into multiple projecting elements
scattered in the longitudinal direction.
6. The seal device according to claim 5, wherein the projecting
elements are sorted into a first group in which the projecting
elements are formed by folding back the end portions of the
partitioning member to a front side of the base portion and a
second group in which the projecting elements are formed by folding
back the end portions of the partitioning member to a back side of
the base portion.
7. The seal device according to claim 1, wherein each of the first
and second seal members is divided into plural parts aligned in the
longitudinal direction thereof.
8. The seal device according to claim 1, wherein the first and
second seal members and the partitioning member are made of
identical alloy containing nickel.
9. The seal device according to claim 2, wherein the partitioning
member includes a base portion formed in a flat plate shape and
projecting portions formed at both ends of the base portion in a
transverse direction thereof and extending in a longitudinal
direction of the partitioning member and having a greater thickness
than that of the base portion, and each of the first and second
seal members is provided with a hollow in which the projecting
portions are housed and an opening which is formed with a shorter
dimension in a thickness direction than a dimension of each
projecting portion in the thickness direction and into which the
base portion is inserted.
10. The seal device according to claim 9, wherein the projecting
portions are formed in such a manner that both end portions of the
partitioning member in a transverse direction thereof are folded
back.
11. The seal device according to claim 9, wherein each of the
projecting portions is divided into multiple projecting elements
scattered in the longitudinal direction.
12. The seal device according to claim 11, wherein the projecting
elements are sorted into a first group in which the projecting
elements are formed by folding back the end portions of the
partitioning member to a front side of the base portion and a
second group in which the projecting elements are formed by folding
back the end portions of the partitioning member to a back side of
the base portion.
13. The seal device according to claim 10, wherein each of the
projecting portions is divided into multiple projecting elements
scattered in the longitudinal direction.
14. The seal device according to claim 13, wherein the projecting
elements are sorted into a first group in which the projecting
elements are formed by folding back the end portions of the
partitioning member to a front side of the base portion and a
second group in which the projecting elements are formed by folding
back the end portions of the partitioning member to a back side of
the base portion.
15. The seal device according to claim 2, wherein each of the first
and second seal members is divided into plural parts aligned in the
longitudinal direction thereof.
16. The seal device according to claim 2, wherein the first and
second seal members and the partitioning member are made of
identical alloy containing nickel.
17. The seal device according to claim 3, wherein each of the first
and second seal members is divided into plural parts aligned in the
longitudinal direction thereof.
18. The seal device according to claim 3, wherein the first and
second seal members and the partitioning member are made of
identical alloy containing nickel.
19. The seal device according to claim 4, wherein each of the first
and second seal members is divided into plural parts aligned in the
longitudinal direction thereof.
20. The seal device according to claim 4, wherein the first and
second seal members and the partitioning member are made of
identical alloy containing nickel.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a seal device used for a
housing structure of power equipment.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Typically, power equipment such as a gas turbine or an
engine is configured such that sealing target fluid is housed in a
substantially circular ring-shaped housing. The housing is
configured such that members such as multiple platforms or multiple
transition pieces are coupled to each other in a circumferential
direction through seal devices, and therefore, outflow of the
sealing target fluid is prevented. Specifically, the members
adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction are coupled
with a clearance for preventing contact due to, e.g., the pressure
of the sealing target fluid, thermal expansion due to a high
temperature, or vibration upon operation.
[0003] For example, a seal device as described in Patent Citation 1
is formed in a plate shape. Both end portions of the seal device in
a transverse direction thereof are each inserted into a pair of
opposing grooves formed at end surfaces of coupled platforms, and
the seal device is disposed between the grooves. The seal device is
pressed by purge air and comes into contact with an inner surface
of each groove, and therefore, can seal a clearance between the
coupled platforms.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0004] Patent Citation 1: JP 2002-201913 A (second and third pages,
FIG. 10)
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0005] However, in the seal device of Patent Citation 1, when,
e.g., relative displacement of the grooves due to vibration
generated upon operation of a gas turbine or deformation of the
grooves themselves due to thermal expansion occurs, the
plate-shaped seal device moves relative to the inner surfaces of
the grooves with the seal device contacting the inner surfaces on
one side. By such relative movement, locally-strong friction force
is generated, leading to abrasion of the seal device. In some
cases, there is a probability that a hole is caused due to abrasion
or that internal stress in, e.g., a
shearing/compression/tensile/curving direction is caused in the
plate-shaped seal device and cracking or rupturing is caused in the
seal device.
[0006] The present invention has been made in view of these
problems, and is intended to provide a seal device configured so
that seal properties can be held over a long period of time.
Solution to Problem
[0007] For solving the above-described problems, a seal device
according to the present invention is [0008] a seal device inserted
into and disposed between grooves each formed at each of first and
second components which are adjacent to each other and collectively
form a housing structure, including: [0009] a first seal member
inserted into the groove of the first component; [0010] a second
seal member inserted into the groove of the second component; and
[0011] a partitioning member extending between the first and second
seal members to partition a space between the grooves of the first
and second components and arranged movably relative to the first
and second seal members. According to the aforesaid feature, when,
e.g., relative displacement of the grooves of the first and second
components due to vibration or deformation of the grooves
themselves and/or due to thermal expansion occurs, each of the
first and second seal members and the partitioning member move
relative to each other, and therefore, the seal device can follow
the displacement, deformation, etc. Thus, the seal members can be
easily equally brought into contact with inner surfaces of the
grooves, it is less likely to generate locally-strong friction
force on the first and second seal members, and internal stress
generated in the first and second seal members can be decreased.
Consequently, seal properties can be held over a long period of
time.
[0012] Preferably, the partitioning member may be formed from a
thin plate. According to this configuration, the partitioning
member exhibits flexibility, and therefore, excellent followability
for relative displacement, deformation, etc. of the grooves of the
first and second components is exhibited.
[0013] Preferably, the partitioning member may include a base
portion formed in a flat plate shape and projecting portions formed
at both ends of the base portion in a transverse direction thereof
and extending a longitudinal direction of the partitioning member
and having a greater thickness than that of the base portion. Each
of the first and second seal members is provided with a hollow in
which the projecting portions are housed and an opening which is
formed with a shorter dimension in a thickness direction than the
dimension of each projecting portion in the thickness direction and
into which the base portion is inserted. According to this
configuration, the base portion is inserted into the openings and
the projecting elements are housed in the space, and therefore, the
partitioning member and the first and second seal members can be
coupled so that the projecting elements of the partitioning member
can move relative to each other in the hollows of the first and
second seal members.
[0014] Preferably, the projecting portions may be formed in such a
manner that both end portions of the partitioning member in a
transverse direction thereof are folded back. According to this
configuration, the projecting portions can be easily formed
integrally with the partitioning member.
[0015] Preferably, the projecting portions may be divided into
multiple projecting elements scattered in the longitudinal
direction. According to this configuration, the base portion
positioned between the projecting elements adjacent to each other
in the longitudinal direction can be easily curved, and therefore,
the partitioning member exhibits excellent flexibility.
[0016] Preferably, the projecting elements may be sorted into a
first group in which the projecting elements are formed by folding
back the end portions of the partitioning member to a front side of
the base portion and a second first group in which the projecting
elements are formed by folding back the end portions of the
partitioning member to a back side of the base portion. According
to this configuration, the projecting elements are fixed in the
hollows of the seal members on the front and back sides of the base
portion, and therefore, the partitioning member is easily
arrangeable at a desired position with respect to the first and
second seal members.
[0017] Preferably, each of the first and second seal members may be
divided into plural parts aligned in the longitudinal direction
thereof. According to this configuration, the degree of freedom in
relative movement of the first and second seal members is high.
[0018] Preferably, the first and second seal members and the
partitioning member may be made of identical alloy containing
nickel. According to this configuration, the first and second seal
members and the partitioning member have the same properties, and
therefore, the amount of deformation of these members due to
thermal expansion is substantially equal.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a
state in which a clearance is sealed by a seal device according to
a first embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the seal device
according to the first embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the seal
device according to the first embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 4 is an A-A sectional view illustrating the seal device
according to the first embodiment inserted into each groove.
[0023] FIG. 5 is an A-A sectional view schematically illustrating
the seal device according to the first embodiment when relative
displacement of the grooves in the upper-lower direction in the
plane of paper occurs.
[0024] FIGS. 6A and 6B are B-B and C-C sectional views
schematically illustrating the seal device according to the first
embodiment when one groove is deformed in a longitudinal
direction.
[0025] FIGS. 7A and 7B are a perspective view and an exploded
perspective view illustrating a seal device according to a second
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIGS. 8A and 8B are a perspective view and an exploded
perspective view illustrating a seal device according to a third
embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIGS. 9A and 9B are a perspective view and an exploded
perspective view illustrating a seal device according to a fourth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIGS. 10A and 10B are a perspective view and an exploded
perspective view illustrating a seal device according to a fifth
embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 11A is a perspective view illustrating a seal device
according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
11B is a plan sectional view illustrating the seal device according
to the sixth embodiment inserted into each groove.
[0030] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a seal device
according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a seal device
according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0032] Hereinafter, the modes for implementing a seal device
according to the present invention will be described with reference
to embodiments.
First Embodiment
[0033] A seal device according to a first embodiment will be
described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. In terms of the flow of
sealing target fluid, the upper right side in the plane of paper of
FIG. 1 will be hereinafter described as an upstream side U of the
seal device, and the lower left side in the plane of paper will be
hereinafter described as a downstream side D of the seal
device.
[0034] The seal device 1 according to the first embodiment of the
present invention is configured to seal, when multiple transition
pieces forming part of a housing structure of a combustor unit are
arrayed and coupled in an annular shape in a not-shown gas turbine
mainly including an air compressor, the combustor unit, and a
turbine unit, a clearance G between transition pieces 50A, 50B as a
first component and a second component adjacent to each other in a
circumferential direction.
[0035] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the transition pieces 50A, 50B are
rectangular tubular bodies, and rectangular paths 55 are each
formed at center portions of the transition pieces 50A, 50B. The
upstream side U of each path 55 communicates with the inside of a
not-shown combustion liner of the combustor unit, and the
downstream side D of each path 55 communicates with the inside of
the not-shown turbine unit. Each path 55 guides the sealing target
fluid P from the inside of the combustion liner to the inside of
the turbine unit (as shown in the direction of a thick black arrow
in FIG. 1).
[0036] U-shaped grooves 51 continuously formed in an annular shape
are each formed at outer peripheral portions of the transition
pieces 50A, 50B, and each groove 51 is partitioned by a bottom
surface 51a and inner surfaces 51b, 51c extending substantially in
the vertical direction from end portions of the bottom surface 51a
(see FIG. 4). The inner surface 51b described herein is on the
downstream side D, and the inner surface 51c described herein is on
the upstream side U. These grooves 51 are formed such that the
bottom surfaces 51a face each other and are substantially parallel
with each other when side end surfaces 52 of the transition pieces
50A, 50B are arranged facing each other.
[0037] The transition pieces 50A, 50B adjacent to each other are
coupled with the clearance G for preventing contact due to, e.g.,
the pressure of the sealing target fluid, thermal expansion caused
by a high temperature, or vibration upon operation, and the seal
device 1 is used for preventing outflow of the sealing target fluid
P through the clearance G. Hereinafter, the seal device 1 will be
described.
[0038] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4, the seal device 1 includes a
seal member 2A inserted into the groove 51 of the transition piece
50A (see FIG. 4), a seal member 2B inserted into the groove 51 of
the transition piece 50B (see FIG. 4), and a partitioning member 3
extending between the seal members 2A, 2B to partition a space
between the grooves 51 (see FIG. 4) and coupled to each of the seal
members 2A, 2B. The seal device 1 is disposed between the grooves
51 across a longitudinal direction of the partitioning member
3.
[0039] The board thickness of the partitioning member 3 is 1/30 to
1/5 times (more preferably 1/20 to 1/10 times) as great as the
dimension of the seal member 2A in a board thickness direction of
the partitioning member 3 (i.e., a board thickness direction of a
later-described base portion 30a of the partitioning member 3, and
such a direction will be hereinafter referred to as a "thickness
direction"). With this configuration, the partitioning member 3
exhibits favorable flexibility. On the other hand, the board
thickness of the seal member 2A is 1.2 to 5.0 times (more
preferably 1.5 to 3.0 times) as great as the board thickness of the
partitioning member 3. With this configuration, the seal member 2A
exhibits favorable durability and higher stiffness than that of the
partitioning member.
[0040] First, the seal member 2A will be described with reference
to FIGS. 2 to 4. Note that the seal member 2B has the substantially
same configuration as that of the seal member 2A, and therefore,
description thereof will be omitted or simplified in description
below. The seal member 2A is an elongated member formed by
extrusion molding with nickel-based alloy, linearly continuously
extending in a longitudinal direction, and having a C-shape as
viewed in the section. The seal member 2A includes a hollow 20 as a
space defined by the seal member 2A, continuously extending in the
longitudinal direction, and having an oval shape as viewed in
plane, and a slit-shaped opening 21 formed between a pair of
opposing side end portions extending along the longitudinal
direction of the seal member 2A. The C-shaped section of the seal
member 2A is in such a shape that a bottom portion linearly
extending substantially in parallel with the bottom surface 51a of
the groove 51, side portions curved in an arc shape at about 90
degrees from upper and lower end portions of the bottom portion to
a clearance G side and extending to the clearance G side
substantially in parallel with the inner surfaces 51b, 51c of the
groove 51, and quadrant circular portions curved in an arc shape at
about 90 degrees from end portions of the side portions to face and
approach each other are continuous to each other.
[0041] Moreover, since the seal member 2A is the elongated member,
the seal member 2A is easily bendable in the longitudinal
direction. In addition, since the seal member 2A is formed in the
C-shape, the pair of side end portions sandwiching the opening 21
moves close to each other or apart from each other, and therefore,
the seal member 2A is easily extendable/contractable as in a
spring.
[0042] Next, the partitioning member 3 will be described with
reference to FIGS. 2 to 4. The partitioning member 3 is formed from
a nickel-based alloy thin plate linearly continuously extending in
the longitudinal direction. The partitioning member 3 includes the
flat plate-shaped base portion 30a substantially linearly extending
in the longitudinal direction, and projecting elements 30b, 30c
formed by folding back of both end portions of the partitioning
member 3 in a transverse direction thereof and having a greater
thickness than that of the base portion 30a.
[0043] The dimension of the base portion 30a of the partitioning
member 3 in the transverse direction is 10 to 100 times (more
preferably 20 to 50 times) as great as the board thickness of the
partitioning member 3, and the base portion 30a is easily
elastically deformable in the transverse direction. Moreover, since
the base portion 30a is in the flat plate shape elongated in the
longitudinal direction, the base portion 30a is also easily
elastically deformable in the longitudinal direction.
[0044] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the projecting element 30b is
formed in a dome shape protruding to an inner surface 51b side of
the groove 51, and a dome-shaped space is formed between the
projecting element 30b and the base portion 30a along the
longitudinal direction. The dome shape of the seal member 2A is
such a shape that a bisection circular portion curved in an arc
shape at about 180 degrees from the end portion of the base portion
30a to the inner surface 51b side of the groove 51, side portions
linearly extending to the clearance G side substantially in
parallel with the inner surface 51b, and quadrant circular portions
curved in an arc shape at about 90 degrees from an end portion of
the side portion to a base portion 30a side are continuous to each
other. Similarly, the projecting element 30c is formed in a dome
shape protruding to an inner surface 51c side of the groove 51, and
communication along the longitudinal direction is allowed between
the projecting element 30c and the base portion 30a. These
projecting elements 30b, 30c are alternately formed on the front
and back sides of the base portion 30a along the longitudinal
direction.
[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, the multiple projecting elements 30b,
30c are scattered in the longitudinal direction on the inner
surface 51b side or the inner surface 51c side of the groove 51.
Thus, the base portion 30a positioned between adjacent ones of the
projecting elements 30b in the longitudinal direction can be easily
curved to the inner surface 51b side of the groove 51 in the
transverse direction, and the base portion 30a positioned between
adjacent ones of the projecting elements 30c can be easily curved
to the inner surface 51c side of the groove 51 in the transverse
direction. Thus, the partitioning member 3 exhibits excellent
flexibility.
[0046] Moreover, since the projecting elements 30b, 30c are folded
back to the front and back sides of the base portion 30a, the
partitioning member 3 is easily arrangeable at a predetermined
position with respect to the seal members 2A, 2B, and a portion
between the projecting elements 30b, 30c adjacent to each other in
the longitudinal direction can be easily curved in the thickness
direction. Thus, the partitioning member 3 exhibits excellent
flexibility. Further, the projecting elements 30b, 30c formed in
the dome shape have spring properties in a normal direction (i.e.,
the thickness direction) of the base portion 30a.
[0047] These seal members 2A, 2B and the partitioning member 3 are
made of the same material such as the same nickel-based alloy, and
therefore, the amount of deformation due to thermal expansion is
substantially equal among the seal members 2A, 2B and the
partitioning member 3. Thus, the seal members 2A, 2B and the
partitioning member 3 are less susceptible to influence of a
deformation difference due to a temperature.
[0048] Next, assembly of the seal device 1 will be described with
reference to FIG. 3. The board thickness of the partitioning member
3 is shorter than a dimension between the end portions of the seal
member 2A sandwiching the opening 21, and the projecting elements
30b, 30c of the partitioning member 3 have a longer dimension in
the thickness direction of the partitioning member 3 than the
dimension between the pair of side end portions of the seal member
2A sandwiching the opening 21. Thus, the seal member 2A and the
partitioning member 3 are coupled to each other in such a manner
that the base portion 30a is inserted into the opening 21 and the
seal member 2A and the partitioning member 3 are moved relative to
each other in the longitudinal direction while the projecting
elements 30b, 30c are housed in the hollow 20. Regarding the seal
member 2B, the seal member 2B and the partitioning member 3 are
coupled to each other as in the seal member 2A. In this manner,
assembly of the seal device 1 is completed.
[0049] Note that in description below, a position relationship
among the seal members 2A, 2B and the partitioning member 3 as
illustrated in FIG. 2 will be described as a "neutral position,"
and a state at the neutral position will be described as a "neutral
position state."
[0050] In the neutral position state, a state in which each of the
projecting elements 30b, 30c partially contacts an inner surface
20a of the hollow 20 and return stress acts on the projecting
elements 30b, 30c is brought. Moreover, at other portions, a slight
clearance is formed between each projecting element 30b or each
projecting element 30c and the inner surface 20a, and a great
clearance is formed between the base portion 30a positioned on the
opposite side of each projecting element 30b or each projecting
element 30c and the inner surface 20a. Thus, the projecting
elements 30b, 30c are easily turnable relative to the seal member
2A.
[0051] Next, a state in which the seal device 1 is inserted into
the grooves 51 of the transition pieces 50A, 50B will be described
with reference to FIG. 4. The seal device 1 inserted into the
grooves 51 is pressed to the downstream side D in response to the
pressure of the sealing target fluid P (see FIG. 1), and
accordingly, the seal member 2A and the seal member 2B come into
contact with the inner surfaces 51b of the grooves 51. At this
point, the partitioning member 3 is, by the pressure of the sealing
target fluid P, specifically slightly bent in a curved shape in the
transverse direction such that the center of the base portion 30a
protrudes to the downstream side D, but such a bending amount is
small. Thus, the base portion 30a is illustrated as a linear shape
in FIG. 4. Note that an example where the dimensions of the seal
members 2A, 2B in the thickness direction are formed smaller than
the dimensions of the grooves 51 in the same direction has been
described, but the seal members 2A, 2B may each closely contact the
inner surfaces 51b, 51c of the grooves 51.
[0052] The partitioning member 3 extends across the seal members
2A, 2B to partition a portion inside each groove 51 into two spaces
on the upstream side U and the downstream side D. Moreover, at a
coupling portion between each of the seal members 2A, 2B and the
partitioning member 3, the base portion 30a of the partitioning
member 3 is inserted into the opening 21 of each of the seal
members 2A, 2B with a slight clearance. Further, in the hollow 20,
the dome-shaped projecting elements 30b, 30c are alternately
arranged on the front and back sides of the base portion 30a across
the longitudinal direction. This forms a labyrinth structure. With
these configurations, the clearance G between the transition pieces
50A, 50B is sealed by the seal device 1 inserted into the grooves
51. Note that the board thickness of the base portion 30a may be
adjusted such that the base portion 30a of the partitioning member
3 bent in the curved shape in the transverse direction by the
pressure of the sealing target fluid P contacts the pair of side
end portions sandwiching the opening 21 of each of the seal members
2A, 2B. With this configuration, seal properties at the coupling
portion are further enhanced.
[0053] Next, the seal device 1 when relative displacement of the
grooves 51 occurs due to, e.g., vibration upon operation of the gas
turbine will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. When the
transition pieces 50A, 50B relatively move to the upstream side U
and the downstream side D and relative displacement of the grooves
51 in the upper-lower direction in the plane of paper occurs, the
seal device 1 first tilts by a clearance A (see FIG. 4) between
each of the seal members 2A, 2B and the inner surface 51c of the
groove 51 in association with displacement. Each of the seal
members 2A, 2B slightly turns in the clockwise direction.
Accordingly, part of the upper left side of the seal member 2A in
the plane of paper comes into contact with the inner surface 51c of
the groove 51, and part of the lower right side of the seal member
2A in the plane of paper comes into contact with the inner surface
51b of the groove 51. Moreover, part of the upper left side of the
seal member 2B in the plane of paper comes into contact with the
inner surface 51c of the groove 51, and part of the lower right
side of the seal member 2A in the plane of paper comes into contact
with the inner surface 51b of the groove 51 (see FIG. 5).
[0054] Since turning of the seal members 2A, 2B is restricted, the
base portion 30a starts elastically deforming in the transverse
direction when the amount of relative displacement of the grooves
51 increases from a state in which the seal members 2A, 2B
partially contact the inner surfaces 51c of the grooves 51. Stress
generated by such elastic deformation increases, and accordingly,
the projecting elements 30b, 30c turn relative to the seal members
2A, 2B. At this point, the seal members 2A, 2B are deformed and
expanded such that clearances of the openings 21 become slightly
larger, the projecting elements 30b, 30c of the partitioning member
3 are slightly pressed, and the base portion 30a of the
partitioning member 3 is elastically deformed in the transverse
direction. With this configuration, it is less likely to generate
strong friction force between the seal members 2A, 2B and the
groove 51, and it is less likely to generate great stress on the
seal members 2A, 2B themselves and the partitioning member 3
itself. Thus, great deformation/damage of the seal members 2A, 2B
and the projecting elements 30b, 30c is prevented. As described
above, the seal device 1 tolerates relative displacement of the
grooves 51 upon occurrence thereof, and therefore, can hold the
seal properties.
[0055] Meanwhile, such relative displacement of the grooves 51 is
brought under control, and therefore, the seal members 2A, 2B and
the partitioning member 3 relatively turn to the neutral position
by the substantially same mechanism as that upon occurrence of
displacement. Elastic deformation of the base portion 30a of the
partitioning member 3 in the transverse direction is brought under
control, and tilting of the seal device 1 is brought under control
in association with displacement reduction. Thus, the seal members
2A, 2B and the partitioning member 3 return to the neutral position
state.
[0056] Note that depending on the degree of relative displacement
of the grooves 51, the seal device 1 may tolerate displacement
merely by tilting in some cases, or may tolerate displacement by
elastic deformation of the base portion 30a of the partitioning
member 3 in the transverse direction in addition to tilting in
other cases. Moreover, depending on the materials/board thicknesses
of the seal members 2A, 2B and the partitioning member 3, the
degree of displacement, and the pressure of the sealing target
fluid P, the seal device 1 may tolerate displacement in such a
manner that the base portion 30a of the partitioning member 3 is
elastically deformed in the transverse direction with the seal
members 2A, 2B being in surface contact with the inner surfaces 51b
of the grooves 51 as in the neutral position state. Needless to
say, operation of the seal device 1 is changeable depending on,
e.g., performance and use environment of the seal device 1, and
therefore, is not limited to the above-described operation. The
same also applies to description below.
[0057] Next, the seal device 1 when one (the transition piece 50B
in this case) of the grooves 51 is deformed and curved in the
longitudinal direction relative to the other one (the transition
piece 50A in this case) of the grooves 51 due to, e.g., thermal
expansion caused by a high temperature of the gas turbine will be
described with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B. Note that description
overlapping with description regarding occurrence of relative
displacement of the grooves 51 will be omitted.
[0058] As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the seal member 2B inserted into
the groove 51 of the transition piece 50B deformed in an arc shape
is pressed by the sealing target fluid P (see FIG. 1), and
accordingly, is bent in a curved shape in the longitudinal
direction in association with such deformation of the groove 51.
The partitioning member 3 exhibits excellent flexibility in the
longitudinal direction as described above, and the projecting
elements 30b, 30c have higher stiffness than that of the base
portion 30a. Thus, the base portion 30a of the partitioning member
3 is elastically deformed in the longitudinal direction in
association with bending of the seal member 2B.
[0059] Moreover, as illustrated in FIG. 6A, the base portion 30a of
the partitioning member 3 is elastically deformed in the
longitudinal direction in association with bending of the seal
member 2B as described above. The seal member 2A inserted into the
groove 51 of the non-deformed transition piece 50A is in the
substantially same state as the neutral position state in the
present embodiment in which the deformation amount is slight. Note
that although not shown in the figure, the seal member 2A is also
bent in a curved shape depending on the amount of deformation of
the seal member 2B in some cases.
[0060] As described above, in the seal device 1, even when one
groove 51 itself is relatively deformed, the partitioning member 3
and the seal members 2A, 2B move relative to each other
accordingly, and the amount of deformation of one groove 51 is
absorbed. Further, the state of contact between the inner surface
51b of the groove 51 and the seal member 2B is easily holdable, and
therefore, the seal properties are held.
[0061] Note that when relative displacement of the grooves 51 due
to vibration as described above and relative deformation of one
groove 51 itself due to thermal expansion occur in a complex
manner, the seal device 1 is operated in a complex manner in
response to such a situation, and therefore, tolerates
displacement, deformation, etc. occurred in a complex manner.
[0062] As described above, when relative displacement of the
grooves 51 due to vibration, deformation of the groove 51 itself
due to thermal expansion, etc. occur, each of the seal members 2A,
2B and the partitioning member 3 move relative to each other, and
therefore, the seal device 1 can follow displacement, deformation,
etc. Thus, the seal members 2A, 2B are easily equally contactable
with the inner surfaces 51b, 51c of the grooves 51, locally-strong
friction force is less generated at the seal members 2A, 2B, and
internal stress generated in the seal members 2A, 2B can be
decreased. Thus, the seal properties can be held over a long period
of time.
[0063] Moreover, the seal device 1 is configured such that the seal
members 2A, 2B protrude in the thickness direction from the
partitioning member 3. Thus, even when relative displacement of the
grooves 51 or deformation of the groove 51 itself occurs, direct
contact of the partitioning member 3 with the transition pieces
50A, 50B is prevented. In addition, the seal members 2A, 2B are
bent in the curved shape in the longitudinal direction as described
above. Thus, relative movement of each of the seal members 2A, 2B
is less caused because each of the seal members 2A, 2B contacts one
of the inner surfaces 51b, 51c of the groove 51, and the seal
members 2A, 2B exhibit favorable durability. With these
configurations, it is less likely to cause a hole due to abrasion
caused by contact with the transition pieces 50A, 50B across the
entirety of the seal device 1.
[0064] Moreover, the partitioning member 3 is the thin plate
exhibiting favorable flexibility, and is also movable relative to
the seal members 2A, 2B. Thus, even when internal stress in, e.g.,
a shearing/compression/tensile/curving direction is caused in
association with relative displacement of the grooves 51, the
partitioning member 3 can follow such displacement and can be
elastically deformed. Moreover, occurrence of cracking or rupturing
is also prevented.
[0065] Further, even when turning or movement of the seal members
2A, 2B relative to the grooves 51, relative turning (movement) of
the seal members 2A, 2B and the partitioning member 3, and
bending/elastic deformation of the base portion 30a of the
partitioning member 3 in response to relative displacement of the
grooves 51 or deformation of the grooves 51 themselves do not fully
return to the neutral position state after relative displacement of
the grooves 51 or deformation of the grooves 51 themselves has been
brought under control, if the partitioning member 3 is coupled to
the seal members 2A, 2B inserted into the grooves 51, the seal
properties can be held. Note that relative movement of the seal
members 2A, 2B and the partitioning member 3 includes not only
turning as described above, but also relative movement in the
longitudinal direction, the transverse direction, and the thickness
direction.
Second Embodiment
[0066] Next, a seal device according to a second embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A and
7B. Note that the same reference numerals are used to represent the
same components as those described in the above-described
embodiment and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0067] The seal device 101 in the second embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, each of seal members
102A, 102B of the seal device 101 is, in the present embodiment,
configured such that linear slits 22 penetrating from the outside
of the seal member 102A or the seal member 102B to the hollow 20
and extending in a thickness direction are formed at substantially
equal intervals in a longitudinal direction of the seal device 101
at an end portion on an opening 21 side and an end portion facing
an opening 21. Thus, flexibility of the seal members 102A, 102B in
a longitudinal direction thereof is enhanced. Consequently,
excellent followability for relative displacement, deformation,
etc. of grooves 51 is exhibited.
[0068] Note that the slits 22 may be formed at unequal intervals
depending on, e.g., the shape of the groove 51 or the degree of
deformation of the groove 51, and arrangement of the slits 22 may
be changeable as necessary. Further, note that the slits 22 may be
formed only on the opening 21 side of the seal member or may be
formed only at the end portion facing the opening 21, and are not
limited to above.
Third Embodiment
[0069] Next, a seal device according to a third embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 8A and
8B. Note that the same reference numerals are used to represent the
same components as those described in the above-described
embodiments and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0070] The seal device 201 in the third embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B, in the present
embodiment, each of seal members 202A, 202B of the seal device 201
is substantially equally divided in a longitudinal direction, and
the multiple seal members 202A or the multiple seal members 202B
are coupled along a longitudinal direction of a partitioning member
3. With this configuration, adjacent ones of the seal members 202A
or the seal members 202B in the longitudinal direction relatively
tilt at coupling portions thereof, and therefore, flexibility of
the coupled seal members 202A and the coupled seal members 202B in
the longitudinal direction is enhanced. Consequently, the degree of
freedom in relative movement of the coupled seal members 202A and
the coupled seal members 202B is high.
[0071] Moreover, as compared to a case where the seal members 2A,
2B as the elongated members are coupled to the partitioning member
3, the multiple divided seal members 202A, 202B have a shorter
dimension in the longitudinal direction, and therefore, a coupling
process is facilitated.
[0072] Note that depending on, e.g., the shape of a groove 51 or
the degree of deformation of the groove 51, the multiple seal
members 202A, 202B may be formed to have unequal dimensions in the
longitudinal direction of the partitioning member 3.
Fourth Embodiment
[0073] Next, a seal device according to a fourth embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9A and
9B. Note that the same reference numerals are used to represent the
same components as those described in the above-described
embodiments and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0074] The seal device 301 in the fourth embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, in the present
embodiment, seal members 302A, 302B of the seal device 301 are
divided at substantially equal intervals in a longitudinal
direction. At each seal member 302A, 302B coupled to an adjacent
one of the seal members 302A, 302B, a cutout portion 23 recessed in
the longitudinal direction and penetrating in a thickness direction
is formed at one end portion on an inner surface 51c (see FIG. 4)
side of a groove 51. Moreover, at each projecting element 130c of a
partitioning member 103, a plate spring portion 31 cut and raised
in a rectangular shape to protrude a side (i.e., the inner surface
51c side of the groove 51) apart from a base portion 30a and shaped
in a plate spring shape is formed. These plate spring portions 31
are arranged at substantially equal intervals in a longitudinal
direction of the partitioning member 103, and have spring
properties in a normal direction (i.e., the thickness direction) of
the base portion 30a.
[0075] In the seal device 301, when the seal members 302A, 302B and
the partitioning member 103 are coupled to each other, the plate
spring portions 31 protrude to the outside (i.e., a side of the
inner surface 51c of the groove 51) of the seal member 302A or the
seal member 302B through the cutout portions 23. Thus, when the
seal device 301 is inserted into the grooves 51, a state in which
each plate spring portion 31 contacts an inner surface 51c of the
groove 51 and return stress acts on each plate spring portion 31 is
brought, and the seal members 302A, 302B more closely contact inner
surfaces 51b (see FIG. 4) of the grooves 51. Consequently, seal
properties can be improved. In addition, movement of the seal
device 301 itself relative to the grooves 51 in the longitudinal
direction, a transverse direction, and the thickness direction is
reduced, and therefore, rattling of the seal device 301 in the
grooves 51 can be reduced.
[0076] Note that the cutout portions 23 and the plate spring
portions 31 may be formed only on a seal member 302A side or a seal
member 302B side, and are not limited to above. Similarly, the
plate spring portions 31 may be arranged at unequal intervals.
Accordingly, the dimension of the seal member in the longitudinal
direction may be adjusted according to arrangement of the plate
spring portions 31. Moreover, the plate spring portions 31 may
protrude outwardly through through-holes formed to penetrate from
the outside of the seal member to an inner space, and the cutout
portions 23 are not limited to above.
Fifth Embodiment
[0077] Next, a seal device according to a fifth embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A and
10B. Note that the same reference numerals are used to represent
the same components as those described in the above-described
embodiments and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0078] The seal device 401 in the fifth embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in the present
embodiment, each seal body member 402 of the seal device 401 is
configured such that seal members 402A, 402B divided in a
longitudinal direction are coupled to each other as one member
through a coupling portion 402C. With this configuration, a
coupling process is facilitated as compared to a case where the
multiple divided seal members 202A, 202B are separately coupled to
the partitioning member 3.
[0079] Moreover, the seal body member 402 is configured such that
the seal members 402A, 402B are coupled by the coupling portion
402C, and therefore, exhibits excellent seal properties.
Sixth Embodiment
[0080] Next, a seal device according to a sixth embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 11A and
11B. Note that the same reference numerals are used to represent
the same components as those described in the above-described
embodiments and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0081] The seal device 501 in the sixth embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, in the present embodiment, a
partitioning member 203 of the seal device 501 is bent in a curved
shape such that a substantially center portion of a base portion
230a in a transverse direction protrudes to a projecting element
30b side. Both end portions of the partitioning member 203 in the
transverse direction are movable close to each other or apart from
each other, and therefore, the partitioning member 203 is easily
extendable/contractable as in a spring.
[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 11B, the seal device 501 inserted
into grooves 51 is in such a state that the seal device 501 is bent
in a curved shape such that the base portion 230a protrudes to the
projecting element 30b side. By action of return force generated by
separation of both end portions in the transverse direction and
extension of the base portion 230a and deformation force for
pressing, in a protruding direction, the substantially center
portion of the base portion 230a in the transverse direction by the
pressure of sealing target fluid P (see FIG. 1) to elastically
deform the base portion 230a such that both end portions in the
transverse direction move close to each other, part of the upper
left side of a seal member 2A in the plane of paper is pressed by
an inner surface 51c of the groove 51, and part of the lower right
side of the seal member 2A in the plane of paper is pressed by an
inner surface 51b of the groove 51. Moreover, part of the upper
right side of a seal member 2B in the plane of paper is pressed by
an inner surface 51c of the groove 51, and part of the lower left
side of the seal member 2B in the plane of paper is pressed by an
inner surface 51b of the groove 51. Thus, the seal members 2A, 2B
more closely contact the inner surfaces 51b, 51c of the grooves 51,
and therefore, seal properties can be improved. Moreover, movement
of the seal device 501 itself relative to the grooves 51 in a
longitudinal direction, the transverse direction, and a thickness
direction is reduced, and therefore, rattling of the seal device
501 in the grooves 51 can be reduced.
Seventh Embodiment
[0083] Next, a seal device according to a seventh embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 12. Note
that the same reference numerals are used to represent the same
components as those described in the above-described embodiments
and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0084] The seal device 601 in the seventh embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIG. 12, in the present embodiment, a
folded-back portion 32b protruding outwardly from an end portion of
a seal member 2A or a seal member 2B in a longitudinal direction
thereof and folded back to an inner surface 51b side of a groove 51
and a folded-back portion 32c similarly folded back to an inner
surface 51c side of the groove 51 are formed at each end portion of
a partitioning member 303 of the seal device 601 in a longitudinal
direction thereof. The folded-back portions 32b, 32c contact the
end portion of the seal members 2A, 2B. With this configuration,
movement of the seal members 2A, 2B relative to the partitioning
member 303 in the longitudinal direction is restricted.
[0085] Note that a form in which the folded-back portions are
separated from the partitioning member and are welded and fixed to
the partitioning member after the partitioning member and the seal
members have been coupled to each other may be employed other than
the folded-back portions 32b, 32c, or the partitioning member and
the seal members may be merely welded and fixed to each other.
Eighth Embodiment
[0086] Next, a seal device according to an eighth embodiment of the
present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 13. Note
that the same reference numerals are used to represent the same
components as those described in the above-described embodiments
and overlapping description will be omitted.
[0087] The seal device 701 in the eighth embodiment will be
described. As illustrated in FIG. 13, in the present embodiment, at
one end portion of a partitioning member 403 of the seal device 701
in a longitudinal direction thereof, an accordion-shaped plate
spring portion 33 is formed in such a manner that a center portion
of such an end portion is cut and raised in a rectangular shape and
is shaped in an accordion shape. The accordion-shaped plate spring
portion 33 protrudes from end portions of a seal member 202A and a
seal member 202B in a longitudinal direction thereof, and contacts
the end portions of the seal members 202A, 202B in the longitudinal
direction thereof. Moreover, at the other end portion of the
partitioning member 403 in the longitudinal direction thereof,
folded-back portions 32b, 32c are formed (see FIG. 12).
[0088] With this configuration, movement of the coupled seal
members 202A and the coupled seal members 202B relative to the
partitioning member 403 in the longitudinal direction can be
restricted, and the seal members 202A and the seal members 202B are
pressed toward the folded-back portions 32b, 32c of the
partitioning member 403 by the accordion-shaped plate spring
portion 33. Thus, a non-contact state of adjacent ones of the seal
members 202A or adjacent ones of the seal members 202B can be
prevented, and therefore, seal properties can be reliably held.
[0089] Note that other than the accordion-shaped plate spring
portion 33, a coil spring or a bellows may be welded and fixed to
protrude toward the end portion of the seal member, and the present
invention is not limited to the accordion-shaped plate spring
portion 33. Further, note that a form in which the accordion-shaped
plate spring portion is separated from the partitioning member and
is welded and fixed to the partitioning member after the
partitioning member and the seal members have been coupled to each
other may be employed.
[0090] The embodiments of the present invention have been described
above with reference to the drawings, but specific configurations
are not limited to these embodiments. Changes and additions made
without departing from the scope of the present invention are
included in the present invention.
[0091] For example, the slits 22 of the second embodiment may be
applied to each of the divided seal members of the third to fifth
embodiments. The cutout portions 23 and the plate spring portions
31 of the fourth embodiment may be applied to the seal members and
the partitioning member of the first, fifth, and sixth embodiments.
As in the coupling portion 402C of the fifth embodiment, the pair
of seal members formed continuously in the longitudinal direction
in the first and second embodiments may be configured as an
integrated seal body member by means of a coupling portion. Each of
the divided seal members of the third to fifth embodiments may be
coupled to the partitioning member 203 of the sixth embodiment. The
folded-back portions 32b, 32c and the accordion-shaped plate spring
portion 33 of the seventh and eighth embodiments may be applied to
the first to sixth embodiments. The configurations of the first to
eighth embodiments may be combined as necessary depending on the
intended use.
[0092] Moreover, the first to eighth embodiments have been
described that the seal device is in the form used for sealing a
portion between the transition pieces 50A, 50B, but the present
invention is not limited to above. The seal device may be used for,
e.g., multiple platforms, multiple division walls, and multiple
shrouds forming a housing structure of power equipment.
[0093] Each seal member and the partitioning member are not limited
to nickel-based alloy as long as these components are made of alloy
containing nickel, such as nickel superalloy or stainless steel. On
the other hand, these components may be made of ceramic or metal
containing no nickel depending on the intended use.
[0094] Moreover, each seal member and the partitioning member have
been described as the form in which these components are coupled
with the base portion 30a being inserted into the openings 21 and
the projecting elements 30b, 30c being housed in the hollows 20,
but the present invention is not limited to above. Each seal member
may be coupled in such a hinge shape that each seal member is
turnable and pivotable relative to the partitioning member.
[0095] The projecting elements of the partitioning member have been
described as the form in which the hollow dome-shaped projecting
elements are alternately formed on the front and back sides of the
base portion 30a across the longitudinal direction, but the shape
thereof is not limited to above. The projecting element may be
formed in, e.g., a solid dome shape, the shape of a hollow
rectangular tubular body, the shape of a multilayer plate
contacting the base portion, or a cylindrical shape protruding in
the transverse direction of the base portion.
[0096] Moreover, regarding arrangement of the projecting elements
of the partitioning member, adjacent ones of the alternately-formed
projecting elements may be apart from each other in the
longitudinal direction, or the projecting elements may be arranged
on the inner surface 51b side or the inner surface 51c side of the
groove 51 or may be continuously formed across the longitudinal
direction so as to form one continuous projecting portion at each
end of the partitioning member. The present invention is not
limited to above.
[0097] Further, each projecting element of the partitioning member
has been described as the form in which each projecting element is
formed in such a manner that both end portions of the partitioning
member 3 in the transverse direction are folded back, but the
present invention is not limited to above. As long as the seal
members and partitioning member can be integrally formed, a form in
which each projecting element formed separately from the base
portion is fixed by, e.g., welding may be employed.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0098] 1 Seal device [0099] 2A, 2B Seal member (First and Second
seal members) [0100] 3 Partitioning member [0101] 20 Hollow [0102]
21 Opening [0103] 30a Base portion [0104] 30b, 30c Projecting
element (Projecting portion) [0105] 50A, 50B Transition piece
(First and Second components) [0106] 51 Groove [0107] 101 to 701
Seal device [0108] 102A to 402A Seal member (First or Second seal
member) [0109] 102B to 402B Seal member (Second or First seal
member) [0110] 103 to 403 Partitioning member [0111] 130c
Projecting element (Projecting portion) [0112] 203 Partitioning
member [0113] 230a Base portion
* * * * *